The transitional government says the prime minister has removed the ministers of water and minerals, health, higher education and culture. The government accused some of the officials of failing to carry out their duties and misappropriating funds.

The reshuffle follows last month's replacement of the speaker of Somalia's parliament, who was fired after negotiating with the Islamist movement.

Somalia's government is trying to assert its authority over the country.

Islamist leaders have vowed to mount an Iraq-style insurgency against the government. Some violence also is believed to stem from rivalries between clans and warlords.